Baxter County has 1 documented case

More than 100 rabies cases have been reported in Arkansas through July 17 — a figure nearly double the norm of just 54 cases in a year.

State health and animal science experts say that of the 104 cases, 87 have been confirmed in skunks. Experts say most of the rabies cases are found in skunks and bats.

Pulaski and Lonoke counties have the most cases, with 26 for Pulaski and 13 for Lonoke. There has been one documented case in Baxter County, according to the Arkansas Department of Health, which was found in a skunk.

Other north central Arkansas counties to report one rabies case were Stone, Izard, Sharp and Independence — all skunks. Fulton has recorded three — two skunks and one cat.

Tom Troxel, associate head of animal science for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, says the reason for the outbreak is unknown.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals. It's considered one of the most infectious diseases and is fatal for both animals and humans.

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